How to Revamp a Neglected Attic

How to Revamp a Neglected Attic

Do you need more space, but the current frenzy in the real estate market has you breaking out in a cold sweat? The answer to this dilemma might be right above your head. An attic conversion could be your best option for increasing your property’s square footage.

 

 Can this space be made habitable? Here’s what you need to know to clean up and restore a long-abandoned attic. 

Is This a Feasible Project?

Firstly, you must determine if the ceiling is high enough to create a liveable room. The roof’s pitch must also be taken into account: the ideal angle is 45 degrees. If these criteria are met, you can start converting your attic into a safe and welcoming space by dehumidifying, cleaning and renovating it.

The Importance of Proper Insulation and Ventilation 

Just like in the case of an unfinished basement, the attic is a heaven for damp air. The best way to prevent any issues is to insulate it well. Add insulation from the inside at the outset of the renovation process. There is wide range of materials to choose from, such as blow-in insulation, foam boards or hemp batts. Professional companies will be able to advise you.

Good ventilation is likewise key to avoiding mould problems. Leaving an airspace between the insulation materials and its protection it as well as installing a vapour barrier are necessary.

Reducing Humidity Levels

Because hot air rises, the attic will, of course, be far more humid than your home’s other floors. Its relative humidity levels should not exceed 65%. You can check this with a device called a hygrometer. It costs less than $100 to buy and can be used to regularly test all the rooms in the house. In fact, if all the other areas in your property have an adequate humidity level, it will be much easier to deal with the attic.

Tips for Reducing Humidity Levels Throughout the Home:

• A dehumidifier is the simplest and quickest solution. You will see instant results. There are several models on the market, and some are portable, which is very practical for dehumidifying room-by-room.

• Air drying clothes inside instead of outside will increase humidity levels in the home. Hang them to dry in the yard or use your dryer.

• A powerful range hood is necessary for sucking up all cooking fumes and steam. Turn it on every time your cook.

• Air out your home every day by leaving the windows open for at least 20 minutes. Moreover, if you would like your family to actually want to spend time in the attic, you should add windows. Windowless rooms are particularly difficult to dehumidify.

Small DIY Repairs

What can you do if you discover a pre-existing mould issue? You can carry out repairs yourself if it is minimal; however, more extensive damage will require the help of a professional. The first step is to remove the source of the damp air and improve airflow to prevent mould from appearing again in the future. This can be achieved by installing a ventilation system at the top of the roof, for example. Once the underlying causes have been remedied, you can clean the mould by scraping the affected sections and vacuuming. Finish by applying a coat of mould-resistant paint.

Cleaning Advice

Wear personal protection equipment such as the now-famous N95 mask, glasses and gloves. Vacuum dust from top to bottom, scrub the surfaces with a cloth moistened with a mild soap and water solution.  

Decorating With Style!

Now comes the fun part! Install the flooring and drywall, finish the ceiling and add windows if possible. How you finish this room is only limited by your budget and imagination. 

 You are now ready to start your renovation project! What will you turn your attic into: a reading nook, a playroom, a lounge for your teenagers or just an extra storage space? It will require some effort, but your attic can become a prized room in your home.

RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

By RE/MAX Québec

A leader in the real estate industry since 1982, the RE/MAX network brings together the most efficient brokers.